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Tech Stuff: A Review on Nintendo 3DS

Basically Nintendo 3DS is a new exciting platform that has hardware that somewhat misses the mark. The Nintendo 3DS is not some handheld tool similar to all the older models, it is basically the first iteration of a brand new gaming platform and probably the first ever first gaming device to make use of glasses-free 3d technology of its kind. However can the 3DS live up to the hype, overcome the limitations of glasses-free 3D, and produce a compelling new gameplay experience worthy of its $250 MSRP?

Nintendo 3DS and its hardware

For anyone out there that has made use of DS in the past, Nintendo’s next-generation handheld should look and feel plenty familiar, though obviously with a number of clearly prominent changes to its features. While Nintendo went for a slim, minimalist design with the DSi that utilized flat surfaces, unified casing, and a solid color, the 3DS is bulkier with more angular edges and a more complex, multi-panel case design. Basically they have added new feature to its design to make some additions to its functions.

So in order to make accommodation of the dual parallax glasses-free 3D screens and those two outward facing cameras, the 3DS’s top panel is somewhat thicker, while the basic one is somewhat roughly the same to the thickness as the DSi. Though thicker overall, the 3DS is not as wide as the DSi, shaving off roughly a tenth of an inch from the width of the base. The size reduction is lost at some degree considering that it has the screen’s muffin top life design that is prominent over its sides. When paired with the added thickness of the unit, the odd angular screen casing definitely impacts the overall portability of the device and how it can be handy enough for the user.

Though the DS series has never actually been particularly easy to the pocket size, the 3DS is one of the more cumbersome and uncomfortable, with its edges often getting caught on fabric and the device pressing firmly against your leg. But still, the 3DS is quite more likely to be carried in hand or inside the bag of its owner, and the design somewhat becomes a secondary issue. So if ever you are one fan of DS that looks unto the physical structure of the product, then there are some points to it that you can consider before deciding on your purchase.

As for the quality of its overall build, the 3DS’s plastic casing is on-par with the previous versions of Nintendo handhelds, thought the high gloss two tones metallic finish to it gives a little extra aesthetic flair to its overall look. Despite its appearance, the device is still somewhat vulnerable in so many ways of the same regards as the previous generations. As is the case with any clamshell design, the screen hinge is the weakest point, but the 3DS’s feels pretty solid and pops into a slightly angled or flat position. Users may even see the resistance loosening over time, but should hold up with much proper care and storage of the product.

So basically the 3DS also makes use of new slider control for more volume and 3d depths adjustments to the system. Another feature to it is the enabling or disabling of the Wi-Fi which are quite effective for quick adjustments of the user but a little too loose and somewhat easy to move with some accidental brush of the finger. So if ever you are planning to purchase one of these, try to make certain that you know what you want in this product.